Given all the fuss LG has made about the benefits of passive 3D TV, you'd be forgiven for thinking that the Korean brand had turned its back on the active shutter system. Not so. And even more surprising is that the company's most affordable TV over 40 inches, the 42PW450T, uses active shutter glasses.

This may seem like an odd decision for a 42-inch product with a spec sheet that has clearly been pared down to get the price below £600, but LG thinks that the words 'passive' and 'plasma' do not mix.

Just as well really, when we're dealing with a panel that has fewer pixels than most 3D screens. The 42PW450T's mere 1024 x 768 resolution wouldn't be best suited to the halving in resolution that the passive system imposes on its 3D images.

Also not found on the LG 42PW450T are any kind of Smart TV services. Of course, these can be added easily and affordably from elsewhere if that's what floats your entertainment boat.

Looking at LG's 3D plasma lineup, the 42PW450T and its 50-inch sibling, the 50PW450T, are the runts of the litter. Upping the ante to a full HD panel is the step-up 50PZ250T, also with an anti-reflective filter.

Further up the food chain, with four HDMIs is the 50PZ550T, the Smart TV-totting 50PZ570T and luxury styled 50PZ950T. All the Zs come in 60-inch models too.

Full marks to the 42PW450T's design team, who have managed to give this gas-powered TV a contemporary look. The dark grey brushed metal finish (aka hair line texture) might not be to everyone's taste, but the narrow Razor Frame bezel, clean lines and overall svelte appearance are the hallmarks of an edge-lit LED screen rather than the chubby plasma screens we're more used to.

Perhaps the most noticeable imperfection is that the grey screen is reflective, but then again, not unexpected at this price.

The PW4 3D Ready TV series provides stunning stunning picture quality with a stunning razor frame design. Bring the magic of 3D Home and convert your living room to a sports stadium or cinema thanks to its crystal clear picture quality. The PW4 series is HD Ready with built-in freeview HD and 600Hz technology to provide a superb viewing experience.